Create holiday memories without breaking the bank

Figuring out a great gifts for your friends and family members can be challenging. Itís tough to find something thatís both affordable and meaningful.

So, if you want to organize another way of celebrating friendship, consider opting for one of these methods. They will not cost you much, and you will create some long-lasting memories.

* Instead of purchasing presents, have everyone bring desserts for lunch the last day of school before break. You can each bake something or bring your favorite store-bought option. By doing this, you can all share a meal together and no one will worry about whether a gift was good enough.

* Host a party and have your friends bring their favorite holiday movie. Or look for a Christmas movie marathon on TV.

* Spend a night driving through different neighborhoods looking at light displays.

* It might seem like an outdated form of entertainment, but if you and your friends enjoy singing, go caroling. Check for places that allow groups to perform during the holiday season.

* Create scrapbooks of holiday memories. This will allow you and your friends to reminisce about past holidays.

* Go ice skating at the Nelson Center at Lincoln Park. Even though the rink is indoors, you can still warm up with hot chocolate.

* Make a snowman. Challenge your friends or siblings to a snowman-building contest to see how creative everyone can be.

* Making gingerbread houses is a classic Christmas tradition. Gather your friends or family and make houses together. You might make it an annual night and serve holiday treats, bake and listen to festive music while you decorate.

* Make a night out of decorating your Christmas tree. Add tunes and a winter drink such as eggnog.